Negro Spirituals were filled with double entendres. Double entendres are phrases or words that are open to two interpretations. Most spirituals had secret or code meanings. In addition, spirituals used the call and response method, where a singer or lead instrumentalist makes a melodic statement or call and is answered by the singing group. Spirituals can be identified as repetitive, slow and have low or basic melodies. They are soulful, passionate and often melancholy, due to the emotional strife that the slaves experienced.